Governor Abdulswamad calls for tighter oversight on health apps
He noted that while mobile apps have made healthcare more accessible, unchecked use could lead to self-diagnosis and mismanagement of illnesses.
Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Sharrif Nassir has appealed to regional health regulators to introduce stricter controls on the surge of mobile medical applications, warning that many people are turning to online consultations instead of visiting qualified doctors.
Speaking during the 7th Scientific Conference on Medical Products Regulation in Africa (SOMRA), Governor Abdulswamad said the growing trust in digital platforms for medical advice was worrying and called for balanced regulation to protect patients.
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He noted that while mobile apps have made healthcare more accessible, unchecked use could lead to self-diagnosis and mismanagement of illnesses.
“We must ensure these tools are properly regulated so that technology complements, rather than replaces, medical professionals,” he said.
Governor Abdulswamad, however, urged authorities not to over-regulate the digital health space, cautioning that excessive restrictions could discourage young innovators who are developing creative solutions for the health sector.
The governor also commended the national government’s move to digitise the pharmaceutical supply chain, describing it as a major stride in improving accountability and transparency.
He said the new system allows medicines to be tracked from their source, helping to eliminate cases of counterfeit drugs.
SOMRA, a continental platform for policy exchange and regulatory cooperation, brings together African health experts and decision-makers to discuss ways of strengthening medical product regulation. This year’s meeting focused on harmonising regulatory frameworks to unlock Africa’s health potential.
Digital health platforms have become increasingly popular across Kenya, driven by improved internet access and the demand for remote medical services.
However, health professionals have warned that the lack of clear oversight could expose patients to misinformation and unverified treatments.
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